Listening to the national news this week, we are encouraged to hear retail sales are up. It’s been a long time coming. What does it mean for us in the Heart of Virginia? Are the numbers up here? That remains to be seen and mostly depends upon you. Where are you spending your money this year? During this holiday season, make a plan to shop here at home, as these dollars make a real difference in our community.

According to the American Independent Business Alliance, local businesses on average return back to the community about 80 percent of every dollar received. The alliance also claims that every dollar spent locally returns five times that amount through municipal taxes, employee wages and the purchase of materials, supplies and services from other local businesses.

Most of us will spend hundreds of dollars shopping this holiday season. The question is — how much of that spending will come home to help your community and fellow neighbor?

Support your neighbors by shopping at their stores, eating at their restaurants and using their services. Area businesses are vital to the community, and we need to support them to keep them around. You can do your part this holiday season and all year-round by shopping here at home.